A’s trade Gregorio Petit to Texas Rangers for reliever Edwar Ramirez

The A’s added some insurance in the bullpen by acquiring right-hander Edwar Ramirez from the Texas Rangers in exchange for infielder Gregorio Petit. Ramirez, who turns 29 on Sunday, will report to big league camp. He made 96 appearances over the past three seasons with the New York Yankees but was traded to Texas on March 9.

This move is no surprise as the A’s have some health issues among their relievers. Andrew Bailey and Craig Breslow are both trying to work back from elbow soreness, though indications are they should be ready for Opening Day. But Michael Wuertz has made just one exhibition appearance due to shoulder soreness and has not been comfortable with his slider. Joey Devine has been throwing but has yet to appear in a game.

According to two scouts I talked to, Ramirez has a nasty change-up that makes up for a pretty average fastball. He was 6-2 with a 5.22 ERA and two saves in three seasons with the Yankees. His best season came in 2008, when he went 5-1 with a 3.90 ERA, 63 strikeouts and 24 walks in 55 appearances.

“He has a dominant change-up,” one scout said. “He’s not a power arm. He’s a situational guy. He can be a help.”

I’m glad to see Petit get a change of scenery. This guy has been blocked at shortstop w/the A’s for several seasons now. The team is clearly looking at Cliff Pennington and Adam Rosales for the position coming out of spring, and Grant Green, last year’s first-round pick, will be coming through the ranks. Petit didn’t hide the fact he was disappointed he didn’t get more at-bats w/the A’s this spring, but this guy always had a smile on his face walking around the clubhouse.